Lynwood Unified graduates celebrate 2023 commencement

LYNWOOD, CA.­ – Lynwood Unified School District brought another year of success to a close during ceremonies that recognized nearly 900 high school students for their perseverance and academic excellence as they crossed the graduation stage to receive their diplomas.

The district, which live-streamed the ceremonies, celebrated 186 graduates from Vista High School and Pathway Independent Study on June 12, 302 seniors from Firebaugh High School on June 13 and 389 scholars from Lynwood High School on June 14. Graduates plan on attending such colleges and universities as Stanford, UCLA, UC Berkeley, Long Beach City College, Cerritos College and more, with others attending private universities, trade schools or enlisting in the armed forces.

“This is just the beginning of a new chapter in your life, brimming with endless possibilities and opportunities,” Vista and Pathway Principal Ramon Enriquez said. “Embrace the challenges that come your way, for they will mold you into a stronger version of yourself. Keep pushing forward even when the path seems uncertain because it is in those moments that you will discover your true potential.”

During Firebaugh High School’s ceremony, student speakers, including outgoing ASB President Airad Reyes, reflected on how the pandemic shaped their education while acknowledging their families, friends and teachers who have played an invaluable role in their high school journeys.

“No one ever prepares you for how bittersweet it is to see and become the person you are today,” Reyes said. “Four years ago, we walked onto campus not knowing where life would take us, and while our high school years may not have been as perfect as in the movies, we made it work!”

Lynwood High School students closed another chapter of their lives during an emotional ceremony in which school administrators celebrated students who have earned more than $600,000 in scholarships.

“If these four years have taught us anything, it is that we are stronger than any obstacle out there and we are more than capable of reaching our goals,” said valedictorian Roberto Andrade, a Top 10 student who plans to attend Stanford University. “As we turn our tassels to the side, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in our lives, remember to choose paths that genuinely bring you joy and fulfillment.”

The senior classes were also recognized for accomplishments, including earning Advanced Placement (AP) scholar awards, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diplomas, National Honor Society recognitions, Golden State Seal Merit Diplomas, Seal of Biliteracy Diplomas and Shirley Ann Davis Memorial scholarships, awarded to the top African American female and male students with the highest grade point averages at their respective schools.

This year, Lynwood Unified reached a 93% graduation rate among its two comprehensive high schools.

“This class of graduates faced a unique set of challenges from the onset – starting the school year on campus in 2019, transitioning to distance learning in 2020 and reacclimating to in-person learning in 2021,” Superintendent Gudiel Crosthwaite, Ph.D., said. “Through it all, they have shown unwavering support for one another. We are proud of their dedication and are honored to celebrate these scholars. Congratulations to the Class of 2023 as they embark on their future endeavors.”

Top Photo Caption: Vista and Pathway students celebrate following the graduation ceremony held on June 12. Courtesy photo

Source: Lynwood Unified School District